Flower Festivals to visit this spring

Australia’s lush gardens and botanical wonders are in full colour during spring, and there’s no better way to ring the season in than at one of the many festivals and flower shows 2024 has in store. From tulip fields to jacaranda parades and historic gardens, this year promises a host of fine floral spectacles. Here’s our guide to some of the nation’s top flower power experiences.

Nestled in the picturesque Dandenong Ranges, the Tesselaar Tulip Festival is a Dutch-inspired celebration of colour held annually from mid-September to mid-October. This festival features over a million tulips, spread across acres of farmland. You’ll also be able to immerse yourself in festive themes across the season, including Turkish Weekend, Dutch Weekend and Food, Wine and Jazz Weekend.

With live entertainment at each turn and savour a range of culinary delights, the festival also offers a range of unique experiences, including such as traditional Dutch clog dancing, a sculpture exhibition, and garden talks. It’s a perfect outing for families, with plenty of activities for children, including a petting zoo and face painting.

Where to stay

Lilydale is the gateway to the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges, and the Econo Lodge Lilydale makes the perfect base for exploring the region. The hotel is also located within walking distance of cafes and restaurants.

In the heart of Bendigo, the Bendigo Annual Tulip Display transforms Pall Mall and Conservatory Garden into a vibrant floral wonderland from late September to mid-October. This display features more than 43,000 tulips and showcases a stunning array of colours and varieties.

Did we mention that Bendigo was also named the first UNESCO Creative City and Region of Gastronomy in Australia? It’s no wonder that this festival stands out as part of the town’s Bloom springtime program, with over 50 arts performances, gallery exhibitions and food and wine events.

Where to stay

Close to Bendigo city centre, Quality Hotel Lakeside offers a range of Bendigo accommodation options close to the famous Bendigo flower festival.

Held in South Australia’s stunning Riverland region, the Riverland Rose and Garden Festival is a week-long celebration of roses, gardens and the finer things in life. Kicking off in October, and celebrating its 30th year, this festival includes open gardens, the Waikerie Flower Show, Annual Gala Dinner, Festival Fair and Renmark Institute display and a variety of market stalls.

One of the highlights will be the Renmark Rose Festival 2024, when nearby Renmark showcases its beautiful public and private gardens. Enjoy a guided tour, learn from expert gardeners, and enjoy the hospitality of the Riverland community. The festival also features art exhibitions, local food and wine and river cruises. What are you waiting for?

Where to stay

Base yourself in nearby Barmera and enjoy spacious and comfortable accommodation at the Comfort Inn & Suites Riverland. Enjoy golf course views, a seasonal outdoor pool, and tennis courts.

The Bathurst Spring Spectacular, held in late October, is a famed event in the historic heart of Bathurst. This festival opens the gates to some of the most beautiful private gardens in the region, ushering you in to explore a diverse range of garden designs and plant species. Each garden is unique, offering a different perspective on gardening and landscaping.

The event also includes plant sales, garden workshops, and a variety of entertainment options. The Bathurst Spring Spectacular is not just a feast for the eyes but also a source of inspiration for gardening enthusiasts. It’s no surprise this is one of the top flower festivals New South Wales draws crowds to.

Where to stay

Situated right in the heart of Bathurst’s historic gold mining centre, Comfort Inn Serenity Bathurst is an ideal base for families to explore the Bathurst flower festival.

Held across 10 days from late October to early November, the Grafton Jacaranda Festival is a beloved celebration of the iconic jacaranda trees that adorn the streets of Grafton. Established in 1934, it is one of Australia’s oldest flower festivals.

The festival features a parade, the crowning of the Jacaranda Queen, markets, live music, and various cultural events. Each year the Volkers Bar is on hand to serve up its signature beverages, including the festival’s own Her Majesty Lager and the Festival Punch Purple Lemonade.

Where to stay

Located in the centre of the jacaranda-filled Grafton, Quality Inn Grafton is close to Schaeffer House Museum, Grafton Regional Gallery and numerous heritage trails.

Celebrating its 75th year in 2024, the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers is Queensland’s premier floral event. In 2024 this 10 day festival features its traditional Grand Central Floral Parade, a Festival of Food and Wine, Symphony Under The Stars with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra,Twilight Tours and more.

Of course, there’s also the stunning garden displays, and a diverse range of entertainment, floral art competitions, and live music performances. The Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience a festive atmosphere combined with horticultural excellence.

Where to stay

Toowoomba is full of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget. Explore your options in premier locations at Comfort Inn Grammar View and Comfort Inn Glenfield and get ready to explore the Toowoomba Flower Show 2024.

The Canberra Floriade Festival, held from mid-September to mid-October, celebrates its 37th year in 2024 with the theme Art in Bloom. This month-long festival in Commonwealth Park features over a million flowers in bloom, and the Canberra Flower Festival 2024 experiences included garden workshops, artistic displays and entertainment for all ages.

NightFest, the after-dark component of Floriade, transforms the park with illuminated flower beds, light shows, and live performances. This year the festival also features live music held on two stages, cabaret in the Kazador Tent, and Nightfest market stalls, food and drinks.

Where to stay

The Quality Hotel Dickson offers modern, comfortable accommodation close to attractions in the heart of town and, providing the perfect base for exploring the Floriade Festival in Canberra.

Kings Park Festival 2024 - Western Australia

Held every September, the Kings Park Flower Festival celebrates the unique flora of Western Australia. Set in the stunning Kings Park and Botanic Garden in Perth, the festival showcases the state’s extraordinary wildflowers and native plants. You’ll also enjoy guided walks, educational workshops and family-friendly activities.

The festival also includes live music, art installations, and a variety of food stalls. One of the highlights is the Botanic Garden’s impressive display of native wildflowers, which bloom in a spectacular burst of colours. The Kings Park Festival is a perfect opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Western Australia.

Where to stay

Find comfortable and stylish Perth accommodation options next to parkland, beaches and coastline.

Header image credit: Destination NSW